All PostsAmateur Competition Kicks Off Day Two of the Nautique Wake Open Presented by Rockstar

Amateur Competition Kicks Off Day Two of the Nautique Wake Open Presented by Rockstar

ORLANDO (April 22, 2016) – The second day of the Nautique Wake Open presented by Rockstar Energy kicked off with amateur divisions beginning their elimination qualifiers, along with the Pro Wakeskate Semifinals. Temperatures in the low 80’s and sunny-blue skies provided optimal weather for riders of all ages and skill levels who were on hand to compete behind the award-winning Super Air Nautique G23 at the second stop of the Nautique Wake Series, the only series that puts riders first.

Pro Wakeskate qualifying boasted an incredibly talented lineup of riders, who were set to compete in the Semifinals as they battled to earn their position in Sunday’s main show. At the end of qualifying, Brian Grubb (USA), Reed Hansen (USA) and Brandon Thomas (USA) led the way winning their respective heats.

“I’m blessed to be back healthy and riding again,” said Team Nautique Rider Brandon Thomas. “The wake behind the G23 is massive and it felt like I was floating out there. I just went out wanting to show everyone what wakeskating is all about and I’m looking forward to carrying the momentum into the final on Sunday.”

In the Men I Semifinals, Jared Franco (USA) demonstrated his skills riding the wake of the industry-leading G23 to take the top spot. The Men II Semifinals witnessed a solid performance from Corbin Blanton (USA) as he relied on his flashy style to sit atop the scoring sheets.

Talented female athletes took the water as their respective classes began the opening round of elimination, including Allison Lavrack (USA) grabbing the upper hand in the Jr. Girls (9&under) Semifinals. Hollie Waldrop (USA) lead the way in the Girls (10-13), while Julia Meyer (GER) jumped to the top of Master’s Women (30-39) Semifinals.

There was no shortage of action throughout the day, which included Kevin Duffy (USA) and Daniel Johnson (USA) engaging in an intense battle for bragging rights in the Boy’s (10-13) Semifinals. The Jr. Boy’s (9&under) Semifinals watched Maxim Sitnikov (USA) lay down one of the most impressive runs of the day ahead of Xavier Olea (MEX).

Some of the day’s best action took place in the Jr. Men (14-18) Semifinals as multiple riders dueled for the opportunity to advance to the Finals. Noah Fedorovich (USA) recorded an impressive variation of tricks in the Boy’s Beginner (10-13) Semifinals.

Dayle Cartwright (USA) faced stiff competition as he emerged victorious in the Veterans (40&Over) Semifinal just ahead of Kevin Michael (USA) in the runner-up position.

The Nautique Wake Open is set to kick off at 8:30AM on Saturday, April 23 for day three of the event, which will include Pro Men’s Quarterfinals, Pro Women’s Semifinals and Amateur Finals.

As the organizer and sanctioning body of the 2016 Nautique Wake Open presented by Rockstar Energy, the World Wakeboard Association would like to thank all of its partners for their support in making the event possible, including Nautique Boat Company and Rockstar Energy Drink.

About Nautique Boat Company: Celebrating 91 years of excellence in the marine industry, Nautique is a subsidiary of Correct Craft and has been on the waters of the world with a passion for innovation since 1925. Nautique is known to push the envelope of possibility on the water, and our owners have come to expect nothing but the absolute best. The Ski Nautique 200 has changed waterskiing with 19 world records, the G-Series has won numerous awards for wakeboard boat and wakesurf boat of the year while unlocking new possibilities in wakeboarding and wakesurfing, and our Sport Series has given families endless days on the water without compromise. Through our Nautique Cares initiatives we’re dedicated to not only making a difference on the water, but to people in need around the world. The world’s best ski boat, world’s best wake boat, and a company that cares. To learn more visit Nautique.com.

About Rockstar: Rockstar Energy Drink is designed for those who lead active lifestyles – from Athletes to Rockstars. Available in over 25 flavors at convenience and grocery outlets in over 30 countries, Rockstar supports the Rockstar lifestyle across the globe through Action Sports, Motor Sports, and Live Music. For more information, visit: www.RockstarEnergy.com

About The WWA: The World Wakeboard Association is the global leader in wake sports sanctioning. The WWA owns and operates the WWA Wakeboard World Series, WWA Wake Park World Series, WWA Wakeboard National Championships, WWA Wake Park National Championships, WWA Wakeboard World Championships, WWA Wake Park World Championships, WWA Wake Park Triple Crown, WWA Pro Card and WWA Rider Experience. With 27 affiliate countries worldwide, the WWA is a rider-formed organization dedicated to promoting and growing wake sports worldwide. It is the primary source for riders, event organizers and competitive standards. For more information on the WWA and its events, check out www.thewwa.com